Explore 2026 Funded Graduate Opportunities at Arizona State University (ASU) School of Sustainability (Fully Funded for International Students)
Arizona State University (ASU) stands among the world’s leading public research institutions, committed to solving global challenges through innovation and education. For the 2026 academic intake, the ASU School of Sustainability invites applications for its graduate degree programs, including fully funded opportunities through assistantships, fellowships, and research funding. These programs aim to prepare future leaders in sustainability science, policy, and practice — welcoming international students from all backgrounds.
Why Choose Arizona State University (ASU)?
Ranked among the top innovative universities in the United States, ASU offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment where sustainability meets technology, policy, and social impact. The School of Sustainability — the first of its kind in the U.S. — is part of the Global Futures Laboratory, giving students access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge research labs, and community-driven projects.
- Located in Tempe, Arizona – a vibrant hub for climate innovation.
- Access to leading research centers in renewable energy and sustainable cities.
- Opportunity to collaborate with international NGOs and industry partners.
- Funded graduate assistantships and research projects for high-performing students.
General Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet both ASU Graduate College and School of Sustainability criteria. Admission is open to individuals holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Minimum GPA: 3.00 on a 4.00 scale (last 60 undergraduate hours or completed graduate program)
- Degree: Bachelor’s or Master’s from a recognized institution
- English Proficiency (International Applicants): TOEFL iBT 100 | IELTS 7.5 | Duolingo 130
- GRE: Not required for any sustainability graduate programs
Required Application Documents
- ASU Graduate Admission Application and fee
- Official academic transcripts
- Letters of Recommendation (typically 2–3)
- Statement of Intent or Personal Statement
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of English Proficiency (for non-native English speakers)
Graduate Programs Offered by ASU School of Sustainability
ASU offers a wide range of graduate programs focused on sustainability leadership, environmental management, and sustainable development. Each program integrates research and real-world practice.
PhD, MA, and MS in Sustainability | PhD in Sustainable Energy
- Campus: Tempe
- Admission Term: Fall only
- Deadline: PhD – December 15 | MA/MS – July 1
- GPA Requirement: 3.25 (on 4.00 scale)
- Recommendations: 3 academic references
- Statement of Intent: Max 2 pages explaining background, career goals, and sustainability research interests.
Master of Sustainability Solutions (MSUS)
- Campus: Tempe
- Admission Term: Fall only
- Deadline: July 1
- GPA Requirement: 3.00
- Statement of Intent: 400 words on career goals and alignment with ASU’s mission.
- Sustainability Issue Statement: 400 words discussing a key sustainability challenge.
Master of Sustainability Leadership (MSL)
- Campus: ASU Online
- Admission Terms: Fall & Spring
- Deadlines: Fall – August 1 | Spring – December 15
- Recommended GPA: 3.00
- Application Includes: Resume/CV and Personal Statement
Executive Master of Sustainability Leadership (EMSL)
- Campus: ASU Online
- Admission Term: Fall only
- Deadline: August 1 (apply early by June 1)
- GPA: 3.00 recommended
- Requirements: 2 recommendation letters, resume/CV, and personal statement
Master of Science in Sustainable Food Systems
- Campus: ASU Online
- Admission Term: Fall only
- Deadline: July 25
- GPA Requirement: 3.00
- Recommended Experience: 2+ years in food or agriculture-related fields
- Documents: Resume, personal statement, and 2 letters of recommendation
Funding Opportunities for International Students
ASU provides multiple pathways for funding graduate studies, including:
- Research and Teaching Assistantships: Offer tuition remission and stipends.
- Graduate Fellowships: Competitive awards recognizing academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Departmental Awards: Based on sustainability research interests.
- External Scholarships: ASU assists international students in applying for Fulbright, USAID, and other global scholarships.
Application Timeline and GPA Petition Process
Students who fall below the required GPA may still apply through the GPA Petition Process. Applicants must first submit a complete application and then email a justification to [email protected] before the program deadline.
How to Apply
- Visit the official ASU Graduate Admission Portal.
- Choose your program under the School of Sustainability.
- Complete the online form and upload all required documents.
- Pay the application fee and submit before the deadline.
- Monitor your email for updates from the ASU Graduate Admissions Office.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Start early and contact potential faculty members you wish to work with.
- Write a personalized statement highlighting your sustainability vision.
- Demonstrate leadership and real-world impact in your CV.
- Ensure recommendation letters reflect both academic and community involvement.
FAQs: ASU Graduate Sustainability Programs 2026
1. Do international students receive full funding? Yes. Qualified international students may receive full or partial funding through research assistantships or competitive fellowships.
2. Is GRE mandatory for admission? No. The GRE is not required for any graduate program in the School of Sustainability.
3. Can I apply if my GPA is slightly below 3.00? Yes, but you must submit a GPA Petition with a justification before the application deadline.
4. Can I apply for multiple sustainability programs? You can apply for one program per admission cycle, but you may contact the admissions team to discuss which program fits your background best.
Official Link
Visit the official application portal here: https://admission.asu.edu/apply/graduate
